Sanjeevani Vikas Evam Jan Kalyan Samiti with the support of HDFC Bank CSR Parivartan has implemented the Holistic Rural Development Programme (HRDP) in Theog Block of Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh. The project aims to enhance quality of life of 1600 households by promoting sustainable agriculture, improving health and education infrastructure, strengthening local governance and empowering women and farmers. The intervention adopts an integrated development model with the community ownership at its core.
The Project covers 20 villages across 6 Gram Panchayats and focuses on key development pillars. Agricultural initiatives include the promotion of high-yield seeds, horticulturally based training, Technique Transfer Training, exposure visits of progressive farmers to the Krishi Vigyan Kendra and Horticulture and Agriculture University, Establishments of Agriculture Tool Banks, Collection Centers for apple to improve productivity, reduce post-harvest losses and strengthen market linkages. Community Based Village Development Committees (VDCs) are being formed and trained the VDCs members to take charge of development planning, beneficiary selection, project monitoring, ensure sustainability of the village beyond project and project period.
The project also targets health and educational improvements through school infrastructure upgrades setting up solar powered smart classrooms, functional libraries and science labs and better sanitation facilities. Health screening camps, upgradation of health centers and veterinary camps are being conducted to address human and livestock health care. Furthermore, Solar Street lights installation and irrigation tanks construction promote renewable energy use and climate resilient farming.
The Holistic and community driven project aims to create model villages that are self-reliant, climate resilient and inclusive. By integrating skill building, livelihood enhancement and participatory planning the Holistic Rural Development Project in Theog, Shimla is paving the way for a sustainable rural transformation rooted in local leadership and innovation.
Objectives of the project:
- To empower women and community members to actively participate in planning and implementing the program through collective decision-making and sustainable community-level institutions.
- To create a safe, child-friendly, and stimulating learning environment that promotes early childhood education and health.
- Promotion of renewable sources of energy.
- To improve community health.
- To enhance household income through improved irrigation systems & improve agriculture-horticulture practices.
- To improve education systems and enhance sports activities in schools.